Shipping Arabia, November 9, 2026 – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided new X-ray inspection equipment at the Port of Aqaba in Jordan to improve container inspections, strengthen customs capabilities and facilitate cargo movements through the country’s principal maritime gateway.
The installation marks an important step in enhancing customs inspection efficiency as demand for container handling at the port continues to increase. The equipment is expected to accelerate inspections, support the digitalization of scanning data and streamline customs procedures.
According to JICA Jordan Office, a completion ceremony for the installed equipment took place in Aqaba on October 28, 2026. The event marked the completion of the installation and highlighted ongoing cooperation aimed at strengthening Jordan’s customs inspection capabilities.
New X-Ray Equipment to Improve Container Inspections at Aqaba
The new X-ray equipment is expected to improve the speed and efficiency of container inspections at the Port of Aqaba, supporting the port’s role as a major gateway for Jordanian and regional trade.
JICA highlighted the growing demand for container handling at the port as an important factor behind the initiative. The new inspection technology is intended to help customs authorities manage this demand more efficiently while supporting smoother cargo movements.
A key component of the improvement is the digitalization of scanning data. By advancing digital inspection processes, the equipment is expected to make customs procedures more efficient and support the movement of goods through the port.
These improvements aim to strengthen the operational efficiency of customs inspections while supporting the broader flow of containerized cargo through Aqaba.
Supporting Jordan’s Trade Links With Regional Markets
Beyond improving inspection procedures at the Port of Aqaba, the equipment is expected to facilitate cargo movements across Jordan and into neighboring markets.
According to JICA, more efficient container inspections will support the movement of goods from Aqaba to Amman and other parts of the country. The improvements are also expected to benefit cargo flows destined for Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria and Türkiye.
This regional dimension reflects Aqaba’s importance as a maritime gateway serving both Jordan’s domestic market and trade connections with surrounding countries.
By improving customs inspection efficiency, the initiative aims to support more reliable cargo movements and strengthen regional logistics connectivity.
JICA and Jordan Customs to Continue Cooperation
JICA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Jordan Customs Department to strengthen the country’s customs functions.
The agency emphasized that continued cooperation would focus on improving customs capabilities and contributing to more efficient and reliable regional connectivity.
The provision of X-ray inspection equipment forms part of these efforts, combining faster container inspections with improved digital scanning processes to support customs efficiency.
With container handling demand at the Port of Aqaba continuing to increase, the new equipment is expected to contribute to smoother customs procedures and facilitate the movement of goods within Jordan and across regional trade routes.
Source: JICA Jordan Office
